An introduction to using activated carbon in aquariums!

The adsorption principle of activated carbon is:

  A balanced surface concentration is formed on the surface of the particles, and then the impurities of organic substances are adsorbed into the activated carbon particles, and the adsorption effect is very high in the initial stage of use.

  However, as time goes by, the adsorption capacity of activated carbon will weaken to varying degrees, and the adsorption effect will also decrease.

  If the aquarium water is turbid and the water contains high levels of organic matter, the activated carbon will quickly lose its filtration capabilities. Therefore, activated carbon should be cleaned or replaced regularly.

  The size of activated carbon particles also affects adsorption capacity.

  Generally, the smaller the activated carbon particles, the larger the filtration area. Therefore, powdered activated carbon has a large total area and good adsorption effect, but powdered activated carbon easily flows into the aquarium together with water, is difficult to control, and is rarely used.

  Granular activated carbon is difficult to flow due to the formation of particles, and impurities such as organic matter in the water are not easily blocked in the activated carbon filter layer. Its strong adsorption capacity makes it easy to carry and replace.

  The adsorption capacity of activated carbon is directly proportional to the contact time with water. The longer the contact time, the better the quality of the filtered water.

  The adsorption capacity of activated carbon is related to the temperature of the water and the quality of the water. The higher the water temperature, the stronger the adsorption capacity of activated carbon.

  When the water quality is acidic, the adsorption capacity of activated carbon for anionic substances is relatively weakened. When the water quality is alkaline, the adsorption capacity of activated carbon to cationic substances is weakened. Therefore, the unstable pH value of water quality will also affect the adsorption capacity of activated carbon.

  Aquariums use the activated carbon method:

  Before loading activated carbon into the filter, a 2 to 3 cm thick sponge should be placed at the bottom and top to prevent large particles such as algae from seeping into it. After using activated carbon for 2 to 3 months, if the filtration effect decreases, it should be replaced. New activated carbon and sponge layers should be replaced regularly.